People's Elephant Stand Tall In Lafia As Resilient Enyimba Holds Nasarawa United

The People’s Elephant once again proved their pedigree on the road, grinding out a hard-fought 1–1 draw against Nasarawa United at the Lafia City Stadium on Wednesday to extend their belief and momentum in the league’s second stanza.

In a contest defined by grit, discipline and big-moment character, Enyimba FC soaked up early pressure from a confident Solid Miners side still buzzing from their away success in Umuahia. 

Despite Nasarawa’s bright start, the nine-time champions stayed compact and organised, with goalkeeper Kelvin Ogunga producing a series of calm, decisive interventions — the highlight being a crucial penalty miss by the home side off the Keeper's antics that kept Enyimba firmly in the contest.

After a goalless first half, the encounter burst into life in the second period. Nasarawa United struck first in the 69th minute when Jofrank Istafanus reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the Enyimba box to put the hosts ahead.

True to their champions’ spirit, Enyimba responded almost immediately. Just four minutes later, Edidiong Ezekiel was felled inside the area, and Kalu Nweke kept his nerve from the spot, calmly converting from 12 yards to restore parity in the 73rd minute.

Both teams pushed for a winner in a thrilling finale, with the goalkeepers at both ends standing firm to ensure the points were shared after 90 intense minutes.

Reacting after the match, Enyimba Technical Adviser, Coach Deji Ayeni reserved special praise for his players, dedicating the away point to their attitude and resilience.

“First and foremost, I want to give it to the players for their doggedness and commitment to the game,” Ayeni said.

“They gave it their all. No game is easy, home or away but we thank God they were resilient and stayed dogged throughout.”

The smooth-talking gaffer also used the moment to rally the club’s passionate supporters, urging patience and continued belief as the season progresses.

“I want to urge our fans to be patient enough with the team,” he added.

“They will see improvement in the games to come. This result will boost our morale and confidence going forward.”

With Lafia successfully negotiated, Enyimba FC now turns attention to a home showdown against Bayelsa United on Sunday at the Enyimba International Stadium, a fixture the People’s Elephant will approach with renewed confidence and the backing of their fans in Aba.

In Lafia, Enyimba didn’t just earn a point, they sent a message. The Elephant is gathering momentum.